In late 2021, Jenny Hunnicutt and her husband stumbled upon an opportunity that would change their lives – Royal Caribbean International’s first world cruise. The idea of spending 274 days circumnavigating the globe was too enticing for the nomadic couple to resist, so they quickly booked a cabin for $54,000 per person. Little did they know, their decision would spark a social media frenzy. The #ultimateworldcruise hashtag went viral within three weeks of the ship’s departure, amassing over 150 million views on TikTok.
Jenny, a social media influencer, chronicled her journey under the handle @drjennytravels, sharing about 200 videos from the trip. She credited the cruise’s explosion online to the availability of high-speed internet worldwide, allowing passengers to post in real-time. Royal Caribbean’s vice president of sales, Vicki Freed, acknowledged that the response to the Ultimate World Cruise had been nothing short of amazing. The cruise had taken on a life of its own, capturing the imagination of people around the world.
The idea for the Ultimate World Cruise was conceived by Royal Caribbean International CEO Michael Bayley during the pandemic. Bayley wanted to offer the longest world cruise ever, spanning an impressive 274 days. While it took some convincing to get his colleagues on board with the idea, he eventually succeeded. The demand for extended voyages and world cruises has been on the rise since the pandemic, with other cruise brands following suit.
As Royal Caribbean’s first world cruise drew to a close, executives hinted at the possibility of another extended sailing in late 2026. The 20-year-old Serenade of the Seas underwent significant upgrades to cater to passengers staying onboard for nine months. From new bedding to laundry machines, every detail was meticulously planned to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience for the guests.
Jenny Hunnicutt, the face behind @drjennytravels, speculated on the reasons behind the cruise’s TikTok fame. The novelty of a nine-month voyage and the youthful demographic on board were among the factors that contributed to its popularity. However, it remains unclear whether the social media buzz will translate into increased future bookings for world cruises. Industry experts like Mike Matthews have their doubts, suggesting that the demographic using TikTok may not align with the typical world cruise clientele.
Despite the luxury and exclusivity associated with world cruises, Vicki Freed emphasized that the guests were seeking experiences rather than displays of wealth. A sense of openness and curiosity permeated the atmosphere, with individuals from various backgrounds coming together to embark on this extraordinary journey. As advisors consider recommending world cruises to their clients, Freed advised them to remain open-minded about who might be interested in such an adventure.
As the Ultimate World Cruise phenomenon comes to a close, its impact on the future of long-haul cruising remains uncertain. While social media played a significant role in elevating the cruise to international fame, the lasting effects on the industry and consumer behavior are yet to be seen. Whether this viral sensation will translate into sustained interest in world cruises or serve as a unique moment in time remains to be determined.
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